The complete guide to the third generation Range Rover · 2002 to 2012

Towing & payload

Last updated: 18 June 2012

The L322 is one of the great tow cars: a heavy, grippy, torque-rich 4x4 rated to pull up to 3,500 kg. For horseboxes, caravans and trailers, a diesel L322 is hard to beat — which is exactly why so many were bought for the job.

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Photo: L322 towing a trailer / caravan

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Key takeaway: The L322 tows up to 3,500 kg and the TDV8 diesels are superb tow cars — huge torque, air suspension self-levelling and a stable platform.

Towing capacity

Figure	Value
Max braked trailer	up to 3,500 kg
Kerb weight (diesel V8)	~2.6-2.75 tonnes
Drive	Permanent 4WD + low range

Always check the exact plated towing/noseweight limits for the specific car and market.

Why it's a great tow car

Big low-down torque. The TDV8?TDV8 — Land Rover's twin-turbo diesel V8 (3.6, later 4.4) — the 'AJD-V8' / 'Lion' engine, prized for huge torque. diesels pull from very low revs.
Heavy, planted kerb weight?kerb weight — The weight of the car ready to drive (fluids, no occupants or luggage). The L322 is heavy at ~2.4-2.8 tonnes. gives stability with a trailer.
Permanent 4WD + low range for slippery launches (wet fields, ramps).
Air suspension self-levels for noseweight, keeping the car composed.
Supercharged/TDV8 cars add an electronic rear diff for traction.

Best engine for towing

VERDICT The 4.4 TDV8 (700 Nm) is the ultimate L322 tow car, with the 3.6 TDV8 (640 Nm) a close and more affordable second. Both pull effortlessly and return usable economy. Petrols tow fine but drink heavily under load.

Towing tips

TIP Towing loads the drivetrain hard, so the L322's known weak points matter more: keep the gearbox fluid fresh, let diesel turbos cool down after hard pulls, and stay on top of cooling-system condition. A self-levelling air system that works properly is essential.

Notes

Because towing accelerates wear, a car with a tow history needs an especially careful look at the gearbox, transfer case, brakes and air suspension. See the buying guide and common problems.

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